The US Secretary of Education, Miguel Cardona, recently engaged in a discussion with Republic reporter Hannah Dreyfus about the prevalence of „bad actors“ in the education business. The conversation shed light on the culture of mostly for-profit schools that target vulnerable populations such as first-generation college students and veterans. This dialogue highlighted the importance of ensuring that all students have access to quality education without being exploited by unscrupulous institutions.
One of the key points raised during the discussion was the impact of online schools on K-12 and higher education, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tippecanoe School Corp. in Indiana noticed a significant number of students opting for fully online education through other institutions and school corporations. This trend prompted the creation of the Tippecanoe Online Academy, a locally run and taught online high school aimed at providing students with a quality alternative to traditional in-person education.
Devin Arms, the director of technology innovation at TSC, emphasized the importance of offering students the choice to pursue online education locally. The Tippecanoe Online Academy has already enrolled 65 students, all residing within Tippecanoe County. The school will have its own ID number through the Indiana Department of Education and will feature courses taught by teachers from McCutcheon and Harrison high schools.
While the online academy will function as a separate school within TSC, certain extracurricular activities like sports or band may not be available to fully online students due to current regulations. However, the school offers rolling enrollment, allowing students from outside the district to enroll at any time throughout the year. This flexibility ensures that students have access to online education that meets their needs and preferences.
Susan Sherlow, a math teacher at McCutcheon High School, highlighted the growing need for better online opportunities for students, especially those who may struggle in a traditional classroom setting. Drawing from her own experience as a mother pursuing an online degree, Sherlow emphasized the benefits of online education for students who require a more flexible learning environment.
Sherlow’s approach to teaching at the Tippecanoe Online Academy reflects her commitment to creating a supportive and engaging online learning experience for students. She plans to incorporate live classes, discussion boards, and other forms of communication to ensure active participation and monitor student progress. By fostering open communication and collaboration among teachers and students, Sherlow aims to create a dynamic and inclusive online learning community.
As the Tippecanoe Online Academy prepares for its inaugural year, Sherlow acknowledges the challenges and excitement that come with launching a new educational initiative. She emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding as both teachers and students navigate this new learning environment. By prioritizing student needs and fostering a sense of community, the online academy aims to provide a high-quality education that meets the diverse needs of its students.
In conclusion, the discussion between Miguel Cardona and Hannah Dreyfus sheds light on the importance of addressing „bad actors“ in the education business and ensuring that all students have access to quality education. The establishment of the Tippecanoe Online Academy exemplifies a proactive approach to meeting the evolving needs of students and providing them with a flexible and engaging learning experience. Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to student success, institutions like TSC are paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable education system.